Joshua Allison from Northumberland College took a BTEC Level 3 in Uniformed Services. He is currently working with Northumbria Police as a Special Constable and has been in the role for over 3 years.

‘During the pandemic I’ve been responding to an increase in COVID-19-related incidents as well as dealing with business as usual high incident demand. We’ve encountered many situations where we’ve had to take a new approach to safety procedures – responding to jobs using personal protective equipment and using communication skills differently to engage with the community to make sure everyone is safeguarded.’

Despite the unprecedented nature of the current situation, Joshua says his studies at Northumbria College prepared him well. ‘A key part of my course involved learning skills such as decision making, communication skills, judgment, flexibility and adaptability. These skills have been critical in helping me adapt and manage in my job over the past few months and what’s great is by pulling on these skills I know my knowledge and practical skills have advanced.’

Joshua has found the local community extremely supportive, ‘they’ve been amazing and the appreciation we’ve received has been overwhelming. They understand that as key workers we’re more exposed to coronavirus even with PPE equipment. The support they’ve shown us has been amazing and it’s really motivating.’

With thanks to Northumberland College and Joshua